This is a hybrid meeting:
- Join us in person at Knox Presbyterian Church (Lisgar & Elgin) in Geneva Hall. Please use the Garden Entrance on Elgin Street. Limited free street parking is available on Saturdays, and the City Hall Parking Garage is available for $2.00.
- Join online by registering here.
. This registration covers both events.
A Cautionary Tale Part II: The Importance of Fishing in the Biggest Pond
Presenter: Barbara Tose
Following the DNA discovery that her grandfather was not who she thought he was, Barbara went in search of who he really was. It took several years—learning the basics of DNA in genealogy, talking endlessly with knowledgeable friends and waiting for matches to appear. Results came when she finally dropped her line in the right pond. And in the end, the solution came easily and with another astonishing revelation.
Barbara Tose has been researching her family history since a 1982 trip to her grandfather’s hometown of Whitby in North Yorkshire. Over the years she has enjoyed presenting interesting aspects of her research in talks and articles.
Part I of Barbara's presentation, given at the June 2025 meeting, is available for members to view on our Past Events page.
Navigating the New Library and Archives Canada Website
Presenter: Ken McKinlay
Over the past few years the website for Library and Archives Canada has undergone a number of changes. For some long-time users of the old site, this has caused moments of frustration. In this presentation we take a look at the new site, touch upon using the new census search system, and explore other resources they have made available to us.
Embarking on a genealogical adventure over two decades ago, Ken McKinlay's quest began with a mission to confirm or debunk three family stories. Despite uncovering the truths behind those initial tales, Ken's passion for delving into his family's past remains steadfast, fueled by a constant stream of new questions. As a sought-after speaker by branches of Ontario Ancestors, the British Isles Family History Society of Greater Ottawa, and other genealogy societies across Canada, Ken McKinlay shares his expertise through engaging talks and workshops. His topics have included researching those who have fought for Canada in the world wars, exploring the Canadian censuses, delving into the mysteries of Ontario Land Records, and an eight part series covering "Back to Basics" research for the British Isles. His presentations also focus on genealogical methodologies and overcoming genealogy brick walls. Beyond public speaking, Ken shares his insights on his blog, Family Tree Knots, providing a valuable resource for fellow enthusiasts.
